Scientist focusing on the development of adhesives for art and cultural heritages in Bern

The Project

If something is broken, it is glued! It is not as simple as it can be done in everyday life for any imaginable material as it is with art and cultural goods made of wood. Countless wooden sculptures, panel paintings or altarpieces in churches and castles worldwide show cracks and fractures due to their old age, which have to be glued and restoration become necessary. Then adhesives are required, which follow the principles of restoration ethics. Common, sometimes used adhesives from natural raw materials or industrial sources cannot be used for all purposes and can even lead to further damage. The goal of our project is therefore the development, optimization and targeted use of cellulose structures as aqueous adhesive suspensions for the bonding of wooden artifacts.

Your Qualifications

• A PhD or master in conservation and restoration, materials science, chemistry or related field with a strong background in adhesive or cellulosic materials

• Strong interest in developing novel adhesives for arts and heritages

• Excellent precise work, documentation, scientific writing and communication skills

• Fluency in German and English (written and oral) is mandatory

The duration of this position is two years. The project will start January 1st, 2019.